Washing machine

ABSTRACT

A washing machine includes a water tub, a fine bubble water generation unit configured to generate fine bubble water containing fine bubbles, and water supply controller configured to control supply of the fine bubble water into the water tub. The water supply controller changes a supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub based on an operation course.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a washing machine.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, fine bubbles called microbubbles and nanobubbles each having a diameter of several tens nm to several μm attract attention, and it is considered that fine bubble water containing a large amount of fine bubbles is used in a washing machine. Laundry is washed by the fine bubble water in which detergent is dissolved, which makes it possible to improve washing performance.

CITATION LIST Patent Literature

Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2014-158599

SUMMARY OF INVENTION Technical Problem

Typically, the washing machine is configured to be able to perform a plurality of types of operation courses different in operation contents, for example, a standard course, a speed course, and a careful course. Therefore, excess or shortage of a supply amount of the fine bubble water may occur in each of the operation courses only by simply applying the fine bubble water to the washing machine. In such a case, the function of the fine bubble water cannot be effectively exerted.

Therefore, provided is a washing machine that is configured to be able to perform a plurality of types of operation courses different in operation contents and can effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water in each of the operation courses.

Solution to Problem

A washing machine according to the present embodiment includes a water tub, a fine bubble water generation unit, and water supply control means. The fine bubble water generation unit generates fine bubble water containing fine bubbles. The water supply control means controls supply of the fine bubble water into the water tub. Further, the water supply control means changes a supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub based on an operation course.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a vertical cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a configuration example of a washing machine according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a control system of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram (part 1) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 2) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 3) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram schematically illustrating a control example of a washing machine according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a control system of a washing machine according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram (part 1) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram (part 2) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram (part 1) schematically illustrating a control example of a washing machine according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram (part 2) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the fourth embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a diagram (part 1) schematically illustrating a control example of a washing machine according to a fifth embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram (part 2) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram (part 1) schematically illustrating a control example of a washing machine according to a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a diagram (part 2) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the sixth embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a supply amount setting button according to a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a control system of a washing machine according to an eighth embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a diagram (part 1) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the eighth embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a diagram (part 2) schematically illustrating a control example of the washing machine according to the eighth embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

In the following, a plurality of embodiments according to a washing machine is described with reference to drawings. Note that in the embodiments, substantially the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

First Embodiment

A washing machine 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a so-called vertical axis washing machine in which a rotation axis of a rotary tub is directed in a vertical direction, and includes an outer casing 11, a top cover 12, a water tub 13, a rotary tub 14, a pulsator 15, a motor 16, a water supply mechanism 17, and the like. The outer casing 11 constitutes an outer shell of the washing machine 10, and is formed in a rectangular box shape as a whole by, for example, a steel plate. The top cover 12 is made of, for example, a synthetic resin and is provided on an upper part of the outer casing 11.

The water tub 13 and the rotary tub 14 function as a washing tub and a dehydrating tub that store laundry to be washed, such as clothes. The water tub 13 is provided inside the outer casing 11. The water tub 13 and the rotary tub 14 are each formed as a bottomed cylindrical container having an opened upper surface. The rotary tub 14 includes a plurality of small holes 14 a, and water moves between the rotary tub 14 and the water tub 13 through the small holes 14 a. Further, an unillustrated drain port is provided on a bottom part of the water tub 13. The drain port of the water tub 13 is connected to an unillustrated drain mechanism. The drain mechanism includes a drain valve and the like on the way of a drain passage extending from the drain port of the water tub 13 to outside of the washing machine 10.

The motor 16 is connected to the rotary tub 14 and the pulsator 15 through an unillustrated clutch mechanism. The clutch mechanism selectively transmits rotation of the motor 16 to the rotary tub 14 and the pulsator 15. In a washing process in which the laundry in the rotary tub 14 is washed and in a rinsing process in which the laundry is rinsed, the motor 16 and the clutch mechanism transmits driving force of the motor 16 to the pulsator 15 while rotation of the rotary tub 14 is stopped, to directly rotate the pulsator 15 in a forward rotation direction and a reverse rotation direction at low speed. Further, in a dehydrating process in which the laundry in the rotary tub 14 is dehydrated, or the like, the motor 16 and the clutch mechanism transmit the driving force of the motor 16 to the rotary tub 14, to rotate the rotary tub 14 and the pulsator 15 in one direction at high speed.

The water supply mechanism 17 is provided on an upper part of the outer casing 11 and inside the top cover 12. The water supply mechanism 17 includes a water injection case 19 and the like on the way of a water supply passage 18. The water injection case 19 has, for example, a rectangular container shape, and is disposed above the water tub 13. An unillustrated washing treatment agent case is insertably and drawably stored in the water injection case 19. The washing treatment agent case includes a liquid detergent storage portion in which liquid detergent is stored, a powdery detergent storage portion in which powdery detergent is stored, a softener storage portion in which softener is stored, and the like.

A water injection port 19 a is provided on a bottom part of the water injection case 19. The water injection port 19 a makes an internal space of the water injection case 19 communicate with the outside. Water flowing into the water injection case 19 passes through the washing treatment agent case to dissolve various kinds of washing treatment agents, and the resultant water is injected into the water tub 13 from the water injection port 19 a. The water injection port 19 a is provided at a position that is located above the water tub 13 and the rotary tub 14 and is visible by a user when the user uses the washing machine 10. Note that the water injection port 19 a may be provided separately from the water injection case 19. Further, a pipe member such as a hose may be interposed between the water injection case 19 and the water injection port 19 a.

A proximal end part of the water supply passage 18 is connected to an unillustrated water source outside the outer casing 11, such as a water tap. On the other hand, a distal end part of the water supply passage 18 is blanched into a plurality of passages, in this case, into a normal water supply passage 18A and a fine bubble water supply passage 18B. A distal end part of the normal water supply passage 18A and a distal end part of the fine bubble water supply passage 18B are connected to the water injection case 19.

The normal water supply passage 18A includes a water supply valve 18A1. Note that the normal water supply passage 18A does not include a fine bubble water generator 20 described below. The normal water supply passage 18A supplies water supplied from the unillustrated water source as is, as normal water not containing fine bubbles, into the water injection case 19. In other words, the normal water supply passage 18A is defined as a common water supply passage that is provided in a washing machine in order to supply washing water into the water tub 13.

On the other hand, the fine bubble water supply passage 18B includes a water supply valve 18B1 and the fine bubble water generator 20. The fine bubble water generator 20 is an example of a fine bubble water generation unit that generates fine bubble water containing fine bubbles. Although detailed illustration is omitted, the fine bubble water generator 20 includes a flow path including a throttle part and a protrusion part. The water flowing through the flow path is throttled when passing through the throttle part to be gradually increased in flow rate and pressure, and collides with the protrusion part while the flow rate and the pressure are high. Further, when the water that is high in flow rate and pressure collides with and passes through the protrusion part, pressure of the water is drastically reduced. A large amount of, for example, 10⁶ or more/ml of fine bubbles are generated in the water by cavitation effect derived from the drastic pressure reduction. The generated fine bubbles each have a diameter of several tens nm to several μm, for example, 50 μm or less.

The fine bubbles generated in such a manner are referred to as microbubbles, nanobubbles, ultrafine bubbles, and the like. The fine bubbles are typically classified as follows based on a particle diameter of each of the bubbles. For example, the bubbles each having the particle diameter of about several μm to about 50 μm, namely, the bubbles in a micro-order are referred to as microbubbles, fine bubbles, or the like. In contrast, the bubbles each having the particle diameter of several hundred nm to several tens nm or less, namely, the bubbles in a nano-order are referred to as nanobubbles, ultrafine bubbles, or the like.

When the particle diameter of each of the bubbles is several hundred nm to several tens nm or less, the bubbles are not visible because the particle diameter is smaller than a wavelength of light, and the liquid becomes transparent. Further, the fine bubbles in the nano-order have characteristics such as large total interface area, low floating speed, and large internal pressure, as compared with the bubbles in the micro-order or more. For example, the bubbles each having the particle diameter of the micro-order rapidly rise in the liquid by its buoyancy, and burst and disappear at a surface of the liquid. Therefore, a staying time of the bubbles in the liquid is relatively short. In contrast, a staying time of the fine bubbles each having a particle diameter of the nano-order in the liquid is long because of small buoyancy.

The water containing such fine bubbles is excellent in surface active action, and contributes to improvement of washing performance of laundry, in particular, washing performance with respect to oil and fat stain including sebum stain. In other words, the fine bubble water generated by the fine bubble water generator 20 has a function to improve the washing performance by the fine bubbles.

In the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, the fine bubble water generator 20 makes the water supplied from the unillustrated water supply contain the fine bubbles to generate the fine bubble water. Further, the fine bubble water supply passage 18B supplies the generated fine bubble water into the water injection case 19. In other words, the fine bubble water supply passage 18B is defined as a water supply passage for supply of the fine bubble water that is provided separately from the common water supply passage in order to supply the fine bubble water into the water tub 13.

A control apparatus 30 illustrated in FIG. 2 mainly includes, for example, a microcomputer, and is provided on, for example, a rear surface of an unillustrated operation panel provided on an upper part of the outer casing 11. The control apparatus 30 executes a control program to control entire operation of the washing machine 10. Further, the control apparatus 30 executes the control program to virtually achieve a water supply control processing unit 31 by software. Note that the water supply control processing unit 31 may be configured by hardware or a combination of software and hardware.

The water supply control processing unit 31 is an example of water supply control means. The water supply control processing unit 31 controls operation of the water supply valve 18A1 to control supply of the normal water into the water tub 13, and controls operation of the water supply valve 18B1 to control supply of the fine bubble water into the water tub 13. During water supply operation in the washing process or the rinsing process in each of the operation courses, the water supply control processing unit 31 appropriately adjusts a time during which the normal water is supplied into the water tub 13 and a time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub 13, thereby changing a supply amount of fine bubble water to a total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13. Further, during the water supply operation, the water supply control processing unit 31 may first supply the normal water into the water tub 13, and then supply the fine bubble water into the water tub 13. Alternatively, the water supply control processing unit 31 may first supply the fine bubble water into the water tub 13, and then supply the normal water into the water tub 13. Further alternatively, the water supply control processing unit 31 may supply the normal water and the fine bubble water into the water tub 13 at the same time.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the water supply control processing unit 31 can perform control to supply the fine bubble water into the water tub 13 in an initial stage and to supply the normal water into the water tub 13 in a middle stage and a last stage, during the water supply operation in the washing process or the rinsing process in each of the operation courses. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 4, the water supply control processing unit 31 can perform control to supply the normal water into the water tub 13 in a first half of the initial stage and to supply the fine bubble water into the water tub 13 in a second half of the initial stage, during the water supply operation in the washing process or the rinsing process in each of the operation courses. The control example illustrated in FIG. 3 and the control example illustrated in FIG. 4 may be selected based on, for example, selection operation by the user, or may be automatically selected by the control apparatus 30 based on the control program.

Further, the control apparatus 30 can perform the plurality of types of operation courses, and the water supply control processing unit 31 can perform control to change the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, namely, control to change concentration of the fine bubbles contained in the water supplied into the water tub 13, based on the operation course. Note that the concentration of the fine bubbles to be supplied into the water tub 13 is determined by, for example, dividing a water amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub 13 by the total water amount including the normal water to be supplied into the water tub 13. Further, the concentration of the fine bubbles to be supplied into the water tub 13 can be adjusted by changing a supply ratio of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub 13 and water other than the fine bubble water, for example, the normal water to be supplied into the water tub 13. Moreover, the concentration, namely, a generation amount of the fine bubbles to be supplied into the water tub 13 can also be changed by adjusting pressure of the water flowing through the fine bubble water supply passage 18B. Note that the pressure of the water flowing through the fine bubble water supply passage 18B can be controlled by adjusting, for example, an opening of the water supply valve 18B1, water pressure of the external water source itself, and a flow path diameter of the fine bubble water supply passage 18B.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, in the present embodiment, the control apparatus 30 can perform at least a standard course, a large-supply short-time course, a small-supply long-time course, and a high detergency course.

In a case where the standard course is performed by the control apparatus 30, the water supply control processing unit 31 sets the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a standard level, for example, 50 percent, and sets a supply time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub 13, to a standard level, for example, 7 minutes.

In a case where the large-supply short-time course is performed by the control apparatus 30, the water supply control processing unit 31 sets the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a large level larger than the above-described standard level, and sets the supply time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub 13, to a short level shorter than the above-described standard level. If the supply amount of the fine bubble water supplied into the water tub 13 is simply increased, the supply time of the fine bubble water is increased. Further, the flow rate of the water is also reduced by flow path resistance at the throttle part of the fine bubble water generator 20. Therefore, when the supply amount of the fine bubble water is increased, the supply time of the fine bubble water tends to be increased. Accordingly, in the large-supply short-time course, an agitating time by the pulsator 15 during water supply is set shorter than a standard time to reduce a total required time while the supply amount of the fine bubble water supplied into the water tub 13 is increased.

In a case where the small-supply long-time course is performed by the control apparatus 30, the water supply control processing unit 31 sets the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a small level smaller than the above-described standard level, and sets the supply time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub 13, to a long level longer than the above-described standard level. Reducing the supply amount of the fine bubble water supplied into the water tub 13 makes it possible to reduce the supply time of the fine bubble water. Therefore, in the small-supply long-time course, the agitating time by the pulsator 15 during the water supply can be set longer than the standard time based on reduction of the supply amount of the fine bubble water supplied into the water tub 13.

In a case where the high detergency course is performed by the control apparatus 30, the water supply control processing unit 31 supplies, into the water tub 13, high-concentration fine bubble water in which the concentration of the fine bubbles contained in the fine bubble water is made higher than the concentration of the fine bubbles in the standard course. Since the concentration of the fine bubble water in the above-described standard course is, for example, 50 percent, the water supply control processing unit 31 generates the high-concentration fine bubble water with concentration higher than at least the concentration in the standard course, for example, 100 percent, and supplies the high-concentration fine bubble water into the water tub 13. In other words, the water supply control processing unit 31 supplies the water into the water tub 13 with use of only the fine bubble water supply passage 18B without using the normal water supply passage 18A. Note that the supply time of the fine bubble water in the high detergency course is appropriately settable, for example, may be longer than, shorter than, or equal to the supply time in the standard course.

According to the present embodiment, in the washing machine 10 that can perform the plurality of types of operation courses different in operation contents, the control apparatus 30 changes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, based on the operation course. This makes it possible to optimize the supply amount of the fine bubble water in each of the operation courses, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

In this case, the control apparatus 30 changes the concentration of the fine bubbles to be supplied into the water tub 13, namely, the supply ratio of the fine bubble water and water other than the fine bubble water, in this case, the normal water supplied into the water tub 13, based on the operation course. An element most affecting the improvement effect of the washing performance by the fine bubble water is the “concentration” of the fine bubbles contained in the water to be supplied into the water tub 13. Accordingly, by paying attention to the “concentration” of the fine bubbles, appropriately changing the concentration based on the operation course makes it possible to exert the washing performance suitable for each of the operation courses.

Further, the control apparatus 30 can perform the large-supply short-time course in which the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 is made larger than a predetermined amount and the supply time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub 13 is made shorter than a predetermined time. According to the large-supply short-time course, it is possible to supply the large amount of fine bubble water into the water tub 13 in a short time, and to reduce the time necessary for supply of the fine bubble water.

Further, the control apparatus 30 can perform the small-supply long-time course in which the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 is made smaller than the predetermined amount and the supply time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub 13 is made longer than the predetermined time. According to the small-supply long-time course, although the time necessary for supply of the fine bubble water is increased, it is possible to supply the fine bubble water into the water tub 13 little by little, and to supply the fine bubble water while carefully bring the fine bubble water into contact with the washing treatment agent.

Further, the control apparatus 30 can perform the high detergency course to supply the high-concentration fine bubble water in which the concentration of the fine bubbles contained in the fine bubble water is made higher than the predetermined concentration, into the water tub 13. According to the high detergency course, it is possible to dissolve the washing treatment agent by the high-concentration fine bubble water and to supply the resultant water into the water tub 13. This makes it possible to more effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water, and to further improve the washing performance.

Moreover, the water supply control processing unit 31 may set the concentration of the fine bubble water supplied in the standard course to 100 percent, and may set the concentration of the fine bubble water in the other operation courses to concentration lower than 100 percent, for example, 70 percent or 50 percent.

Moreover, the water supply control processing unit 31 may set the concentration of the fine bubble water supplied in the short-time course, to concentration lower than the concentration of the fine bubble water in the other operation courses. Reducing the supply time of the fine bubble water and reducing the concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied makes it possible to further shorten the time necessary for water supply operation. In particular, in a case where laundry is washed with use of liquid detergent, sufficient washing effect is expected even if the supply amount of the fine bubble water is reduced as compared with a case where the laundry is washed with use of powdery detergent. Therefore, in the case where the liquid detergent is used, the supply time of the fine bubble water is reduced and the concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied is reduced, which makes it possible to exert sufficient washing effect while achieving reduction of the time necessary for the water supply operation.

Note that the control example illustrated in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and the water supply control processing unit 31 can appropriately change and set the supply amount and the supply time of the fine bubble water in each of the operation courses. For example, the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the large-supply short-time course may be set to the standard level, and the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the other operation courses may be made larger than, smaller than, or equal to the standard level. Further, the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the small-supply long-time course may be set to the standard level, and the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the other operation courses may be made larger than, smaller than, or equal to the standard level.

Further, the supply time of the fine bubble water in the large-supply short-time course may be set to the standard level, and the supply time of the fine bubble water in the other operation courses may be made longer than, shorter than, or equal to the standard level. Furthermore, the supply time of the fine bubble water in the short-supply long-time course may be set to the standard level, and the supply time of the fine bubble water in the other operation courses may be made longer than, shorter than, or equal to the standard level.

Second Embodiment

As illustrated in FIG. 6, in the present embodiment, the water supply control processing unit 31 changes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 based not on the operation course but on an operation process. For example, the standard course includes the washing process, a shower rinsing process, and a stored-water rinsing process. The washing process is a process in which water is supplied up to a predetermined water level for washing process in the water tub 13, and the pulsator 15 is rotated to agitate and wash the laundry in the rotary tub 14. The shower rinsing process is a process in which the laundry in the rotary tub 14 is rinsed while the water in the water tub 13 is circulated and returned in a shower form into the rotary tub 14 from above the water tub 13 through an unillustrated circulation passage. The stored-water rinsing process is a process in which water is supplied up to a predetermined water level for rinsing process in the water tub 13, and the pulsator 15 is rotated to agitate and rinse the laundry in the rotary tub 14. Note that the water level in the water tub 13 in the shower rinsing process can be set to a water level lower than the water level in the water tub 13 in the stored-water rinsing process.

In the washing process, the water supply control processing unit 31 sets the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to the standard level. In the shower rinsing process, the water supply control processing unit 31 sets the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a small level smaller than the standard level. In the stored-water rinsing process, the water supply control processing unit 31 sets the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a large level larger than the standard level.

According to the present embodiment, the control apparatus 30 changes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 based on the operation process. This makes it possible to optimize the supply amount of the fine bubble water in each of the operation processes, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

Note that the control example illustrated in FIG. 6 is merely an example, and the water supply control processing unit 31 can appropriately change and set the supply amount of the fine bubble water in each of the operation courses. For example, the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the shower rinsing process may be set to the standard level, and the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the other operation processes may be made larger than, smaller than, or equal to the standard level. Further, the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the stored-water rinsing process may be set to the standard level, and the supply amount of the fine bubble water in the other operation processes may be made larger than, smaller than, or equal to the standard level. Moreover, the water supply control processing unit 31 can also appropriately change and set the supply time of the fine bubble water in each of the operation processes, in a manner similar to the supply amount of the fine bubble water.

Third Embodiment

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the control apparatus 30 executes the control program to further virtually achieve a temperature detection processing unit 32 by software. Note that the temperature detection processing unit 32 may be configured by hardware or a combination of software and hardware. The temperature detection processing unit 32 is an example of temperature detection means, and detects a temperature of the water in the water tub 13 in this case. More specifically, an unillustrated temperature detection sensor is provided in the water tub 13, and the temperature detection processing unit 32 detects the temperature of the water in the water tub 13 through the temperature detection sensor.

Further, the water supply control processing unit 31 adjusts the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, based on the temperature detected by the temperature detection processing unit 32. In a control example illustrated in FIG. 8, the water supply control processing unit 31 increases the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 as the temperature detected by the temperature detection processing unit 32 is lower. Further, in a control example illustrated in FIG. 9, the water supply control processing unit 31 reduces the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 as the temperature detected by the temperature detection processing unit 32 is lower.

According to the present embodiment, the control apparatus 30 adjusts the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, based on the temperature of the water in the water tub 13 detected by the temperature detection processing unit 32. This makes it possible to optimize the supply amount of the fine bubble water based on the temperature of the water in the water tub 13, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

The washing performance is typically largely influenced by the water supply temperature; however, the washing performance is improved by about 10% to about 20% by presence of the fine bubble water even if the water supply temperature is relatively low. Accordingly, even if the water supply temperature is relatively low, it is possible to expect the washing performance equivalent to the washing performance in a case where the water supply temperature is high, with respect to at least oil and fat stain such as sebum stain.

Note that the temperature detection processing unit 32 may detect a temperature outside the washing machine 10. More specifically, the washing machine 10 may include a temperature detection sensor on, for example, an outer surface of the outer casing 11, and the temperature detection processing unit 32 may detect a temperature of the air outside the washing machine 10 through the temperature detection sensor. Further, the water supply control processing unit 31 adjusts the supply amount of the fine bubble water to total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, based on the temperature of the outside air detected by the temperature detection processing unit 32. This configuration makes it possible to optimize the supply amount of the fine bubble water based on the temperature of the outside air, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

Further, the temperature detection processing unit 32 may be configured to detect both of the temperature of the water in the water tub 13 and the temperature of the air outside the washing machine 10, and the control apparatus 30 may calculate, for example, an average value, a maximum value, and a minimum value of the two detected temperatures, and may adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water based on the calculated values. Further, the control apparatus 30 may select one of the temperature of the water in the water tub 13 and the temperature of the air outside the washing machine 10, and may adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water based on the selected detected temperature. These configuration examples also make it possible to optimize the supply amount of the fine bubble water based on the temperature, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

Fourth Embodiment

In the present embodiment, the control apparatus 30 further can perform a high-temperature water course. The high-temperature water course is an operation course in which the washing process or the rinsing process is performed while water at a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature, for example, 20° C., namely, hot water is supplied into the water tub 13. Such hot water can be obtained, for example, when an unillustrated bath water pump is provided on the washing machine 10 to supply bath water or when an unillustrated water heater is provided on the washing machine 10 to supply hot water.

FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 each illustrate a control example in the case where the washing machine 10 can perform the high-temperature water course. According to the control example illustrated in FIG. 10, in the case where the high-temperature water course is performed, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 larger than the supply amount in the standard course. Further, according to the control example illustrated in FIG. 11, in the case where the high-temperature water course is performed, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 smaller than the supply amount in the standard course.

According to the present embodiment, in the case where the high-temperature water course is performed, the control apparatus 30 adjusts the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13. This makes it possible to adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water to a supply amount suitable for the high-temperature water in the water tub 13, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

Fifth Embodiment

In the present embodiment, the control apparatus 30 can adjust strength of the water flow generated in the water in the water tub 13 in a multiple stages, for example, in three stages of a strong level, a standard level, and a weak level. The strength of the water flow generated in the water in the water tub 13 can be adjusted by controlling, for example, the rotation speed and the rotation amount per unit time of the pulsator 15. Note that the water flow may be adjusted based on adjustment operation by the user, or may be automatically adjusted by the control apparatus 30 based on the control program.

FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 each illustrate a control example in a case where the washing machine 10 is configured such that the strength of the water flow is adjustable. According to the control example illustrated in FIG. 12, in a case where the strength of the water flow generated in the water in the water tub 13 is adjusted to the strong level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 larger than the standard level. Further, in a case where the strength of the water flow generated in the water in the water tub 13 is adjusted to the weak level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 smaller than the standard level.

Further, according to the control example illustrated in FIG. 13, in the case where the strength of the water flow generated in the water in the water tub 13 is adjusted to the strong level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 smaller than the standard level. Further, in the case where the strength of the water flow generated in the water in the water tub 13 is adjusted to the weak level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 larger than the standard level.

According to the present embodiment, in the case where the strength of the water flow generated in the water in the water tub 13 is adjusted, the control apparatus 30 adjusts the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13. This makes it possible to adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water to a supply amount suitable for the water flow generated in the water tub 13, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

Sixth Embodiment

In the present embodiment, the control apparatus 30 can adjust the operation time in each of the operation courses in a multiple stages, for example, in three stages of a long level, a standard level, and a short level. Note that the operation time may be adjusted based on adjustment operation by the user, or may be automatically adjusted by the control apparatus 30 based on the control program. Further, the control apparatus 30 may automatically adjust the operation time based on a weight of the laundry in the rotary tub 14 specified by well-known weight sensing processing detecting the weight of the laundry in the rotary tub 14.

FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 each illustrate a control example in a case where the washing machine 10 is configured such that the operation time in each of the operation courses is adjustable. According to the control example illustrated in FIG. 14, in a case where the operation time is adjusted to the long level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 larger than the standard level. Further, in a case where the operation time is adjusted to the short level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 smaller than the standard level. Reducing the supply amount of the fine bubble water to reduce the water supply time makes it possible to shorten the total operation time.

Further, according to the control example illustrated in FIG. 15, in the case where the operation time is adjusted to the long level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 smaller than the standard level. Further, in the case where the operation time is adjusted to the short level, the water supply control processing unit 31 makes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 larger than the standard level. Increasing the supply amount of the fine bubble water makes it possible to quickly wash away oil and fat stain such as sebum stain. Accordingly, it is possible to shorten the time necessary for washing operation, and therefore to shorten the total operation time.

According to the present embodiment, in the case where the operation time of the operation course is adjusted, the control apparatus 30 adjusts the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 based on the adjusted operation time. This makes it possible to adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water to a supply amount suitable for the adjusted operation time of the operation course, and to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water.

Seventh Embodiment

As illustrated in FIG. 16, in the present embodiment, the washing machine 10 includes a plurality of, in this example, five supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e on, for example, the operation panel. Each of the supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e is an example of supply amount setting means, and is operated by the user in setting of the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13.

Among them, the supply amount setting button 70 a is used to set the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a standard level. When the supply amount setting button 70 a is operated, the control apparatus 30 controls the water supply amount from the normal water supply passage 18A and the water supply amount from the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, to adjust the concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub 13 to, for example, 50 percent.

The supply amount setting button 70 b is used to set the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a large level. When the supply amount setting button 70 b is operated, the control apparatus 30 controls the water supply amount from the normal water supply passage 18A and the water supply amount from the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, to adjust the concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub 13 to, for example, 100 percent. In other words, the control apparatus 30 fully closes the normal water supply passage 18A and fully opens the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, to supply only the fine bubble water into the water tub 13.

The supply amount setting button 70 c is used to set the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a small level. When the supply amount setting button 70 c is operated, the control apparatus 30 controls the water supply amount from the normal water supply passage 18A and the water supply amount from the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, to adjust the concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub 13 to, for example, 0 percent. In other words, the control apparatus 30 fully opens the normal water supply passage 18A and fully closes the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, to supply only the normal water into the water tub 13.

The supply amount setting button 70 d is used to set the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a slightly large level. When the supply amount setting button 70 d is operated, the control apparatus 30 controls the water supply amount from the normal water supply passage 18A and the water supply amount from the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, to adjust the concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub 13 to, for example, 70 percent between 50 percent and 100 percent.

The supply amount setting button 70 e is used to set the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, to a slightly small level. When the supply amount setting button 70 e is operated, the control apparatus 30 controls the water supply amount from the normal water supply passage 18A and the water supply amount from the fine bubble water supply passage 18B, to adjust the concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub 13 to, for example, 20 percent between 0 percent and 50 percent.

According to the present embodiment, the user can select the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 by operating any of the supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e. This makes it possible to adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water to a supply amount desired by the user, and to wash the laundry by the washing effect of the fine bubble water corresponding to user preference.

Note that the number of supply amount setting buttons, namely, the number of stages of the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 can be appropriately changed to perform adjustment. Further, the supply amount setting means may receive a numerical value optionally input by the user, and may linearly adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13 based on the numerical value.

Eighth Embodiment

As illustrated in FIG. 17, the control apparatus 30 executes the control program to further virtually achieve an operation time adjustment processing unit 33 by software. Note that the operation time adjustment processing unit 33 may be configured by hardware or a combination of software and hardware. The operation time adjustment processing unit 33 is an example of operation time adjustment means, and automatically adjusts the operation time in each of the operation courses based on the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13. In this case, for example, when the supply amount of the fine bubble water is set based on operation of any of the above-described supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e, the operation time adjustment processing unit 33 automatically adjusts the operation time in each of the operation courses based on the set supply amount.

FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 each illustrate a control example in a case where the operation time of the operation course is automatically adjusted based on the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13. According to the control example illustrated in FIG. 18, the water supply control processing unit 31 automatically performs adjustment control in which the operation time of the operation course is increased as the supply amount of the fine bubble water supplied into the water tub 13 that is set based on the operation of any of the supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e is larger. Further, according to the control example illustrated in FIG. 19, the water supply control processing unit 31 automatically performs adjustment control in which the operation time of the operation course is reduced as the supply amount of the fine bubble water supplied into the water tub 13 that is set based on the operation of any of the supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e is larger.

According to the present embodiment, the control apparatus 30 automatically performs the control to adjust the supply amount of the fine bubble water to the total water supply amount supplied into the water tub 13, based on the supply amount of the fine bubble water supplied into the water tub 13 that is set based on operation of any of the supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e. As a result, the operation time corresponding to the supply amount of the fine bubble water selected through operation of any of the supply amount setting buttons 70 a to 70 e by the user, is automatically set. This makes it possible to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water, and to eliminate necessity of operation for adjustment of the operation time by the user, thereby providing the washing machine 10 with high usability.

Other Embodiments

The present embodiment is not limited to the above-described plurality of embodiments, and may be expanded or alternated in the following manner. For example, the contents of the above-described plurality of embodiments may be appropriately combined and implemented. Further, the present embodiment is applicable to a horizontal axis washing machine that is a so-called drum washing machine in which the rotation axis of the rotary tub is horizontal or is inclined downward toward rear side.

In the washing machine according to the present embodiment, the water supply control means that controls the supply of the fine bubble water into the water tub changes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub, based on the operation course. With this configuration, in the washing machine that can perform the plurality of types of operation courses different in operation contents, it is possible to effectively exert the function of the fine bubble water in each of the operation courses.

Note that the present embodiment is presented as an example, and does not intend to limit the scope of the present invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in other various forms, and various abbreviations, exchanges, and changes can be made within a scope not deviating from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the scope of the invention recited in the claims and equivalents thereof. 

1: A washing machine comprising: a water tub, a fine bubble water generation unit configured to generate fine bubble water containing fine bubbles; and water supply control means configured to control supply of the fine bubble water into the water tub, wherein the water supply control means changes a supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub based on an operation course. 2: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water supply control means changes concentration of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub based on the operation course. 3: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water supply control means is capable of supplying normal water not containing the fine bubbles into the water tub, and changes a supply ratio of the fine bubble water and water other than the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub based on the operation course. 4: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water supply control means includes an operation course in which the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub is made larger than a predetermined amount and a supply time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub is made shorter than a predetermined time. 5: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water supply control means includes an operation course in which the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub is made smaller than a predetermined amount and a supply time during which the fine bubble water is supplied into the water tub is made longer than a predetermined time. 6: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water supply control means includes an operation course in which high-concentration fine bubble water having concentration of the fine bubbles contained in the fine bubble water higher than predetermined concentration is supplied into the water tub. 7: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein the water supply control means changes the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub based on an operation process. 8: The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising temperature detection means configured to detect a temperature of outside air or water, wherein the water supply control means increases the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub, based on the temperature detected by the temperature detection means. 9: The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising temperature detection means configured to detect a temperature of outside air or water, wherein the water supply control means reduces the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub, based on the temperature detected by the temperature detection means. 10: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein in a case of performing a high-temperature water course in which water at a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature is supplied into the water tub, the water supply control means increases the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub. 11: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein in a case of performing a high-temperature water course in which water at a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature is supplied into the water tub, the water supply control means reduces the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub. 12: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein in a case where strength of water flow generated in the water in the water tub is adjusted or in a case where an operation time is adjusted, the water supply control means increases the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub. 13: The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein in a case where strength of water flow generated in water in the water tub is adjusted or in a case where an operation time is adjusted, the water supply control means reduces the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub. 14: The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising supply amount setting means configured to set the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub. 15: The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising operation time adjustment means configured to lengthen an operation time based on the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub. 16: The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising operation time adjustment means configured to shorten an operation time based on the supply amount of the fine bubble water to be supplied into the water tub. 